Advance to the Finance Minister – section 11 of Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001 (No. 32 of 2000-2001)

Overview

The Legislative Instrument F2007B00832, issued under section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001, serves to adjust the appropriation for a specific item within the budget of the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs. Enacted in 2001 by Vanessa Graham, Acting Branch Manager of the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit, Budget Group, Department of Finance and Administration, this instrument aims to address a financial requirement for the department. The policy objective of this legislative instrument is to ensure that the department has the necessary funds to manage the lawful and orderly entry and stay of people, as outlined in Outcome 1 of the appropriation. The increase in appropriation reflects the government's commitment to maintaining effective immigration services and addressing any unforeseen budgetary needs that may arise during the financial year.

Scope and Application

Section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001 applies to appropriations under the control of the Minister for Finance, allowing for the adjustment of allocated funds for specific agencies as determined by the Acting Branch Manager of the Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit, Budget Group, Department of Finance and Administration. In this instance, the appropriation item for the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs is increased by $1,010,000 for administered expenses specifically related to the outcome of lawful and orderly entry and stay of people. This legislative instrument delineates the redistribution of financial resources within the federal government, directly impacting the operational budget of the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs for the specified fiscal year. The adjustments are confined to the appropriation listed and do not extend beyond the parameters set forth in the Act itself, with no mention of further extensions or restrictions through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

Section 11 of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001 grants the authority to adjust appropriations within specified parameters. This authority is exercised by Vanessa Graham, Acting Branch Manager, Commonwealth Financial Reporting Unit, Budget Group, Department of Finance and Administration, who has determined that the appropriation item for the Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs should be increased by $1,010,000. This increase is specifically allocated to administered expenses under Outcome 1, which pertains to lawful and orderly entry and stay of people. This determination, as per section 11, is crucial for ensuring that the specified department has the necessary financial resources to fulfil its obligations for the fiscal year. The Act imposes several obligations on the parties involved, primarily focusing on the transparent and accountable use of public funds. Vanessa Graham, as the acting authority, must ensure that the appropriation adjustment is justified and necessary for the department's operations. The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs, in turn, is obligated to utilise the increased funds in alignment with the stated appropriation item and outcome. Additionally, the Department of Finance and Administration must oversee and verify that the adjustment complies with legislative requirements and fiscal guidelines. Proper documentation and justification for the appropriation adjustment must be maintained and available for audit or review purposes. Failure to adhere to the provisions of the Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2000-2001 can result in significant consequences. Any misallocation or unauthorised use of funds could be considered an offence under the Public Service Act 1999, leading to potential disciplinary action against the responsible parties. Additionally, the misuse of public funds could result in civil or criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity and intent of the breach. The specific penalties for such offences are not detailed within the legislative instrument but are governed by broader public service legislation and common law principles.